Child Car Seat Review: Peg Perego Primo Viaggio Convertible Seat

Founded in 1949, Peg Perego combines smart European engineering with continental comfort. And the Primo Viaggio Convertible is the epitome of that same simple ethos. Built from the ground up to provide protection both protection and peace of mind, this is one of the best child car seats we have ever tested.

Made in Italy, the Primo Viaggio convertible seat can be used as both a rear-facing and forward-facing seat, accommodating children from 5 to 45 pounds and 22 to 65 pounds in each mode respectively. But this versatility doesn’t come at the cost of Peg Perego’s trademark easy installation.

Our Geeks had no problem rigging up the Primo Viaggio in our test vehicle, taking just a few minutes to achieve a perfect fit in both modes. The straps, which on some seats can be a chore to tighten, are quick to secure, putting this seat leaps and bounds ahead of some of the most popular seats we tested. Positioning the seat is less trial and error and more plug and play.

Despite its size and features, the Primo Viaggio convertible seat weighs just 21 pounds, making it light and easy to carry, which is a bonus if you own more than one vehicle and do not want to fork out thousands to equip each of your cars to transport your kids.

The seat has been rigorously crash tested and meets and sometimes exceeds federal standards. Highlights here include the energy-absorbing foam throughout the seat, which has been shown to reduce crash forces in a collision significantly. Precise side impact protection safeguards your child’s head, neck, and spine and can be adjusted, even when your child is sitting in the seat, to 10 different positions to accommodate your growing little one.

Plus, a contoured steel backplate – a rare feature at this price point – provides added stability and helps reduce forward movement in a crash. Bonus: A top-tether hook can (and should) be properly attached to reduce the risk of the seat tipping over.

The seat cover’s fabric is durable, and during our tests, was resistant to most common stains. Our Geeks were impressed by the seamless design of the cover, which stretches to form a smooth, unbroken surface to cradle your little one.

Bottom line: unparalleled comfort, unexpected luxuries and uncompromising safety make this the best booster car seat under $400.

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